What is the extent of the breast?
Lies over pectoralis major, from 2nd to 6th ribs, from sternal edge to midaxillary line. Tail of Spence extends into axilla.
What is the structure of the breast?
15–20 lobes radiating from nipple, each draining via lactiferous ducts; stroma of fibrous (Cooper’s ligaments) and adipose tissue; nipple and areola contain smooth muscle fibers.
What are Cooper’s ligaments and their clinical relevance?
Fibrous septa connecting dermis to deep fascia; maintain shape. Tumor invasion may tether skin, causing dimpling in carcinoma.
What is the vascular supply of the breast?
Medial: internal thoracic (mammary) artery branches. Lateral: lateral thoracic artery. Posterior: intercostal perforating branches.
What is the lymphatic drainage of the breast?
Axillary nodes (75%): pectoral, central, apical; Parasternal (internal mammary) nodes: medial breast; Supraclavicular nodes: rare; Opposite breast/abdominal nodes: rare.
How is breast palpation performed and what is its relation to fibrous septa?
Systematic pattern (circular, vertical strip, or wedge). Fibrous septa tether tumors to skin; dimpling suggests malignancy.
What is the anatomical basis for the position adopted during breast examination?
Patient supine with arm raised flattens breast over pectoralis major for uniform palpation.
What is the anatomical basis for mammography positioning?
Breast compressed to spread tissue, allowing maximal visualization of all quadrants including axillary tail.
